No one likes to see ants scurrying across the kitchen floor, or to find holes mice use to raid the pantry with impunity at night. The truth is, though, that insect or rodent pests end up entering the houses of virtually all homeowners at some point or another each year.

What's important is to prevent pests from taking up a long-term residence in your house or apartment. But if this does happen, acting quickly by bringing in a professional pest-control service can evict the intruders. Here’s a look at ways to reduce the chances of an infestation.

Ensuring safety & maintaining value
Immediate action is essential if you suspect an infestation, particularly if it's any rodent species or termites that have set up a colony. According to Orkin, a major U.S. pest control firm, rodents' capacity for rapid breeding and spreading diseases makes them a major hazard, especially to families with small children. Orkin also notes that termites cause at least $5 billion in damage to American homes each year. Any substantial damage they do can lower your property's resale value.

Eliminating excess moisture, particularly in basements and attics. This might require a plumber if you find any leaks.

Keep the kitchen and dining room clean. This may be the most important step of all. Insects and rodents alike flock to the crumbs you don't sweep up, even in loose containers or bags holding leftovers. Finally, don't let trash accumulate in the kitchen wastebasket. Remove it regularly or risk attracting fruit-fly swarms.

Reduce clutter. Spiders, ants, cockroaches and other pests love hiding in piles of paper products, be they magazines or cardboard boxes.
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Pesticide safety
You can use store-bought pesticides and traps for home pest control. The EPA notes that these must always be used with care. Apply them only to the area of infestation. Don't let children or pets around the sprayed area for some time after.